Charles Oreve, Author at Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours

Aloha, flavor enthusiasts! As spring blooms spring bursts with blooms of jacarandas and silk oak across Maui’s lush landscapes in April 2025, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the island’s rich agricultural tapestry with Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours. Nestled in the heart of Upcountry Maui at Kupa’a Organic Farm in Kula, our tours offer a sensory journey through the world of cacao and coffee—two of life’s greatest pleasures. Whether you’re a returning visitor or planning your first trip to the Valley Isle, this is your invitation to taste, explore, and connect with Maui’s vibrant land and flavors this spring.

Why April is the Perfect Time to Visit

April on Maui is a season of renewal. The trade winds soften, the hills of Haleakalā glow with green, and the farm at Kupa’a Organic Farm bursts with life. It’s an ideal moment to witness the cacao trees in their early fruiting stages and the coffee plants thriving under the island’s volcanic soil and cool breezes. The weather—warm days paired with crisp evenings—makes for a comfortable stroll through our orchards and gardens, where you’ll discover the magic behind every bean and pod. Plus, with the tourist crowds thinning out post-winter, your experience feels even more intimate and personal.

What to Expect on Your Tour

Our “Blossom to Bar and Beyond” adventure is more than just a tour—it’s a hands-on celebration of Maui’s sustainable farming heritage. Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you this April:

A Walk Through Nature’s Bounty: Wander through our organic farm, where cacao and coffee grow alongside a symphony of tropical plants—think lilikoi, a stroll through the vanilla vineyard bursting with blossoms for 2026 beans, and strategically planted shade trees. Spring often brings surprises, like blossoms signaling the next cacao harvest or coffee cherries ripening into bursts of red. You’ll learn how Maui’s unique microclimate crafts flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Hands-On Chocolate Making: Channel your inner chocolate maker with our interactive demonstration. Crack open a cacao pod, winnow the beans, and grind them into a rich, ceremonial hot chocolate inspired by Aztec traditions. It’s a delicious nod to history, and you’ll savor every sip as you make it yourself.
Global Chocolate Tasting: Sit family-style and sample 6-7 single-origin chocolates from around the world, including at least two rare Hawaiian varieties. From creamy Madagascar to nutty Maui-grown bars, you’ll explore how latitude shapes flavor. Our guides—passionate experts like Ann—will walk you through the tasting, sharing stories of the craft and the land.
Coffee Connections: While Kupa’a’s own coffee recovers from the pesky coffee bean borer (fingers crossed for a comeback soon!), we’re proud to feature a cup from one of Hawaii’s premier producers. Pair it with the stunning bi-coastal views from our farm’s hilltop, and you’ve got a moment to savor.
Spring Bonus: April often brings extra treats from the farm—perhaps a sample of fresh-pressed sugar cane juice or a slice of our famous lilikoi bread, baked with fruit straight from the property. It’s the taste of Maui in every bite.

Sustainability at Heart

At Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours, we’re not just about indulgence—we’re about intention. Kupa’a Organic Farm thrives on sustainable practices, from organic composting aka, the department of “organic alchemy,” cleverly coined by Gerry Ross who is the chief organic alchemist; to natural pest management. Every step, from planting to tasting, reflects a commitment to the ‘āina (land) and a vision for a healthier planet. By joining us, you’re supporting a small, family-owned operation that’s as dedicated to its community as it is to its crops.

Plan Your April Escape

Ready to dive into this springtime delight? Our tours are private and limited to small groups (up to 12, or 14 by request), ensuring an intimate experience. Reservations are a must, so book early; April’s mellow vibe makes it a popular time for locals and visitors alike to explore Upcountry Maui.

When: Tours run daily, Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday 1pm, or earlier by request
Where: 1886 Naalae Rd, Kula, HI 96790. Just look for the breathtaking views breathtaking views and stunning spring harmony everywhere!
Contact: Reach out or call (808) 870-3323 with questions.

A Taste of Maui to Remember

This April, let Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours awaken your senses to the island’s hidden treasures. From the crunch of a cacao pod to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, every moment is a chance to connect with the land, the people, and the flavors that make Maui so extraordinary. Bring your curiosity, your appetite, and maybe a friend or two; because spring on Maui is best shared.

Mahalo, and see you soon on the farm!

Hawaii is a paradise not just for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches but also for its unique agricultural opportunities. Among the many exquisite crops that thrive in its tropical climate, vanilla is one of the most fascinating. At Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours, we celebrate the island’s rich agricultural diversity, and today, we’re diving into the art and science of growing vanilla in Hawaii.

The Allure of Vanilla

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is one of the most sought-after flavors in the world. This climbing orchid produces the vanilla bean, which is meticulously cultivated and cured to bring out its signature aroma and taste. While Madagascar and Mexico dominate global production, Hawaii offers an ideal environment for growing this exquisite crop. The state’s warm temperatures, ample rainfall, and fertile volcanic soil create the perfect conditions for its cultivation.

The Challenges and Rewards of Growing Vanilla in Hawaii

Growing vanilla is a labor-intensive process, requiring patience and dedication. Unlike other crops that can be easily propagated and harvested, its cultivation involves precise care. Here are some key challenges and rewards:

Challenges:

Hand Pollination: Unlike in Mexico, where native bees naturally pollinate orchids, growers in Hawaii must hand-pollinate each flower within a short window of time for successful fruit production.
Time-Intensive Growth: Vanilla plants take 2-4 years to mature before they start producing beans.
Labor-Intensive Harvesting: Each bean requires careful harvesting, followed by months of curing and drying to develop its signature flavor.

Rewards:

High Market Value: It is one of the most expensive spices in the world due to its complex cultivation process.
Sustainable and Niche Crop: Hawaii’s high-quality vanilla is in demand among chefs and specialty food markets.
Unique Agricultural Experience: Growing vanilla offers a fulfilling journey for those who enjoy hands-on, sustainable farming.

How Vanilla Thrives in Hawaii’s Climate

Hawaii’s tropical conditions provide the humidity and warmth that vanilla orchids require. These plants thrive under partial shade, making them an excellent crop to grow alongside coffee or cacao trees. The vines need sturdy support structures, such as trellises or shade trees, to grow properly. With regular watering, careful pruning, and proper hand pollination, Hawaii-grown vanilla can yield high-quality beans.

The Process: From Flower to Bean

1. Planting – It is propagated through cuttings, which are planted in well-draining, organic-rich soil.
2. Pollination – Each flower blooms for only one day and must be pollinated by hand to produce a bean.
3. Growth and Harvest – Once pollinated, the pod takes 8-9 months to mature before being harvested.
4. Curing and Drying – The beans undergo a lengthy curing process, which includes blanching, sweating, and drying over several months to develop their distinct flavor.

Vanilla Farming

The Future of Vanilla Farming in Hawaii

With increasing demand for high-quality, sustainably grown vanilla beans, more farmers in Hawaii are exploring its cultivation. As techniques improve and interest grows, Hawaii has the potential to become a premium producer, offering a unique product with rich, floral, and creamy flavor notes.

It only took 2 years for the vines to start flowering, and the first harvest was 600 beans. This year’s harvested yielded over 1,000 beans! Kupa’a magic which is all about the soil!

At Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours, we celebrate the art of sustainable agriculture and the extraordinary flavors that Hawaii has to offer. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a farmer, or simply curious, we invite you to explore the world of Hawaiian-grown vanilla and discover why this delicate orchid is worth the effort.

At Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours, we believe that chocolate is more than just a treat—it’s an experience. Through our Wholly Cacao initiative, we bring the art of cacao and fine chocolate to discerning palates, whether in the comfort of a private home or at select public venues that share our philosophy of excellence. From intimate, curated in-home tastings to high-end partnerships with sophisticated wine lounges, Wholly Cacao offers a unique opportunity to explore the depth and complexity of artisanal chocolate like never before.

Private In-Home Tastings: A Personalized Chocolate Journey

For those who desire an exclusive and highly personalized tasting experience, Wholly Cacao brings the world of fine chocolate straight to your home. Imagine an evening filled with hand-selected chocolates that highlight the flavors and nuances of the cacao bean, paired perfectly with a curated selection of fine wines, craft beers, or specialty cocktails.

Our private tastings are ideal for:

Gourmet Enthusiasts who appreciate fine flavors and want to expand their knowledge of chocolate.
Wine and Spirits Aficionados looking for new and exciting pairing experiences.
Special Occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, or intimate gatherings with family and friends.
Luxury Dining Experiences where chocolate takes center stage, integrated seamlessly into an evening of fine dining.

Some of the esteemed private chefs we’ve worked with include Chef Jana McMahon and Chef Katarina Tualemoso, who have incorporated our chocolate tastings into their menus. Whether it’s an appetizer-style pairing with cheese and charcuterie or a decadent dessert finale, our chocolate experiences are crafted to delight even the most sophisticated palates.

Pairings can be customized to feature wines, whiskeys, craft beers, or non-alcoholic options, ensuring that every event is as unique as the guests attending it. From bold and fruity dark chocolates to smooth, velvety milk chocolates, each selection tells a story of its origin, its maker, and its journey from bean to bar.

Public Venue Collaborations: Elevating the Chocolate Experience

Beyond the private setting, Wholly Cacao also partners with select venues to create unforgettable public tasting events. These collaborations allow a wider audience to experience the artistry of fine chocolate in settings that complement its luxurious nature.

Past and Upcoming Public Venues

Our last public venue was held at the Lahaina Yacht Club, an exclusive setting that provided the perfect backdrop for a sophisticated chocolate experience. The event was met with great enthusiasm from attendees who relished the opportunity to sample high-quality chocolates while learning about the intricate craft behind them.

This month, we are thrilled to announce our next public event at DeVine Wine Lounge, Kihei’s newest and hippest wine bar, located in Azeka Makai. Known for its elegant ambiance and extensive selection of fine wines, DeVine Wine Lounge provides an ideal setting for a luxurious chocolate tasting experience.

At this upcoming event, guests can expect:

A carefully curated selection of premium chocolates paired with fine wines.
Insightful discussions on chocolate origins, production, and pairing techniques.
A welcoming atmosphere where wine lovers and chocolate connoisseurs can connect over shared passions.

DeVine Wine Lounge isn’t just a wine bar—it’s a place where flavors are celebrated. Their menu includes a curated selection of specialty cocktails, craft beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, making them a perfect partner for Wholly Cacao’s mission of delivering exceptional tasting experiences.

Shared Philosophy: Discriminating Taste

At Wholly Cacao, we don’t just work with any venue—we collaborate with establishments that share our commitment to quality, flavor, and craftsmanship. Just as we are selective about the cacao we source and the chocolates we present, we are equally discerning about the venues we partner with. We seek out locations that prioritize excellence, ensuring that our tastings are enhanced by an environment that matches the sophistication of our offerings.

By teaming up with places like DeVine Wine Lounge, we create an experience that goes beyond just eating chocolate—it becomes a sensory journey, where flavors are explored, textures are savored, and knowledge is shared.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Chocolate Experience

Whether you prefer an exclusive private tasting in your home or an elevated public event, Wholly Cacao invites you to indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience. Join us at DeVine Wine Lounge this month for a night of chocolate, wine, and refined indulgence.

Keep an eye out for future collaborations and tastings as we continue to bring the best of fine chocolate to Maui. Stay connected with us on social media and our website for updates on upcoming events and private tasting opportunities.

At Maui Chocolate and Coffee Tours, we are passionate about sharing the art of fine chocolate with the world. Through Wholly Cacao, we craft experiences that are indulgent, educational, and unforgettable. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

The Hawaiian chocolate industry has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. The number of chocolate makers has more than doubled from approximately 6-7 to at least 12-20. This boom reflects a burgeoning interest in locally produced, bean-to-bar chocolate, mirroring the trajectory of the wine industry in Napa and Sonoma.

Cacao Production Across the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is unique as the only U.S. state where cacao is commercially grown. Each island contributes its own flavor to the state’s chocolate scene. Here is a closer look at the key players across the islands.

Maui: Chocolate Makers in the Spotlight

While Maui has the least cacao production due to its windy conditions – a challenge for the wind-sensitive cacao trees – it is home to some distinctive chocolate makers.

Wholly Cacao: Exclusively offered on Maui Chocolate and Coffee tours, this brand features urban foraged cacao from various spots on Maui.
Kupa’a Farms: At 1,900 feet above sea level, Kupa’a Farms is proof that cacao can grow in unlikely places. This nano-production is primarily for friends and chefs, and when available, it’s a rare treat sampled on tours.
Hana Gold: Maui’s original chocolate maker, known for its dedication to crafting high-quality chocolate.
Valley Isle Chocolate: The newest addition to Maui’s chocolate scene, with trees expected to produce cacao within the next year—a promising development.
Ku’ia Maui Chocolate: Despite surviving two dry hurricanes in Lahaina, this brand continues to create exceptional chocolate for retail.

Big Island: Leading in Cacao Production

The Big Island boasts the largest cacao production in Hawaii, thanks to its rich volcanic soil and diverse microclimates. Notable chocolate makers include:

Puna Chocolate Company: Known for crafting exceptional bean-to-bar chocolate using locally grown cacao.
Mauna Kea Cacao: Renowned for its commitment to sustainable practices and premium chocolate.
Island Sharks Chocolate: A standout producer combining innovation and tradition in their chocolate creations.

O’ahu: A Thriving Chocolate Scene

O’ahu has a well-established chocolate scene with several prominent makers:

Madre Chocolate: One of the pioneers of Hawaii’s bean-to-bar movement, offering ethically sourced and uniquely flavored chocolate.
Manoa Chocolate: Established in 2010, this company crafts chocolate that highlights the unique terroir of Hawaii.
Nine Fine Mynahs: Specializing in premium bean-to-bar chocolate from the North Shore.
21 Degrees Estate: An artisan chocolate maker committed to sustainable cacao farming.
Kualoa Ranch: Producing high-quality chocolate in collaboration with Manoa Chocolate.
Kahuku Farms: Combining agricultural excellence with delectable chocolate creations.

Kaua’i: The Garden Island’s Contribution

Kaua’i’s chocolate scene is anchored by:

Lydgate Farms: A third-generation cacao grower that has played a pivotal role in putting Hawaiian chocolate on the global map.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Maui’s windy conditions pose challenges for cacao cultivation, innovative approaches such as urban foraging and high-altitude farming have enabled its chocolate makers to thrive. Meanwhile, the Big Island continues to lead in production volume, and O’ahu and Kaua’i contribute richly to the diversity of Hawaiian chocolate.

The growth of Hawaii’s chocolate industry highlights the state’s potential to become a global leader in bean-to-bar chocolate. With its unique microclimates, dedicated producers, and expanding cacao cultivation, Hawaiian chocolate offers a taste of the islands’ agricultural and culinary innovation.

Nestled on the lush slopes of Kula, Maui, Kupa’a Organic Farm is a hidden gem that offers visitors an immersive experience into the heart of sustainable farming. As part of the Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours, this farm serves as a bridge between Maui’s natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and the world of chocolate and coffee. Visitors are not only treated to breathtaking landscapes but also gain a profound appreciation for the journey that brings two of the world’s favorite indulgences, chocolate and coffee, to life.

A Scenic Beginning

The journey to Kupa’a Organic Farm is a feast for the senses. Winding roads weave through the vibrant landscapes of Kula, where verdant hills meet expansive ocean views. This drive sets the tone for an experience rooted in Maui’s natural splendor. As guests approach the farm, the refreshing scent of tropical flowers mingles with the earthy aroma of rich volcanic soil, hinting at the agricultural treasures that await.

The Farm’s Sustainable Practices

Kupa’a Organic Farm is a testament to the power of sustainable agriculture. From the moment you step onto the farm, you’ll see a commitment to nurturing the land in harmony with nature. Every crop, whether cacao, coffee, or tropical fruit, is cultivated without synthetic chemicals or harmful pesticides. Instead, the farm relies on organic compost, natural pest management, and regenerative practices to keep the soil healthy and productive.

Visitors learn about these sustainable methods during the tour, discovering how Kupa’a’s practices not only yield high-quality produce but also contribute to the broader ecological balance. It’s a lesson in how small-scale, mindful farming can make a big impact on both flavor and the environment.

Exploring the Crops

One of the highlights of a visit to Kupa’a Organic Farm is exploring its diverse range of crops. The tour focuses on the cultivation of cacao and coffee, two crops that thrive in Maui’s unique climate.

Guests are introduced to the cacao trees, whose pods hold the seeds that will eventually become chocolate. The guides explain every step of the process, from harvesting to fermentation and drying, revealing how these stages influence the flavor profiles of the final product.

The coffee portion of the tour is equally engaging. Maui’s volcanic soil and elevation create ideal growing conditions for coffee beans, and Kupa’a’s meticulous farming practices ensure each bean is packed with flavor. Visitors gain a newfound appreciation for their morning brew as they learn about everything from bean selection to roasting techniques.

Beyond cacao and coffee, the farm features an impressive array of tropical fruits and vegetables. Guests are invited to explore orchards of mangoes, avocados, and bananas, as well as lesser-known fruits like jaboticaba and cherimoya. These crops showcase the diversity and richness of Maui’s agricultural landscape.

The Tasting Experience

No farm tour is complete without sampling the fruits of the farm’s labor. At Kupa’a Organic Farm, the tasting experience is as educational as it is delicious. Guests savor freshly harvested fruits, homemade jams, and, of course, chocolate and coffee crafted from the farm’s own crops.

The chocolate tasting is a particular highlight, offering a chance to sample single-origin bars that reflect the unique terroir of Maui. Each bite tells a story of the island’s soil, climate, and craftsmanship. Lilinoe Farm’s coffee, currently featured, practices the same steps in processing their coffee as Kupa’a, resulting in super soft and yummy coffee.

An Intimate Connection to the Land

What sets Kupa’a Organic Farm apart is the sense of intimacy it fosters. The tours are intentionally small, creating an environment where guests can ask questions, share stories, and build a personal connection to the farm. The guides, often the farmers themselves, share their passion and expertise with infectious enthusiasm, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of both the challenges and rewards of sustainable farming.

A Celebration of Maui’s Agricultural Heritage

Kupa’a Organic Farm is more than a destination; it’s a celebration of Maui’s agricultural heritage. Through its partnership with Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours, the farm bridges the gap between past and present, connecting visitors to the island’s rich history of cultivation while showcasing the innovations that define modern sustainable farming.

Plan Your Visit

For those seeking a unique blend of education, flavor, and natural beauty, a visit to Kupa’a Organic Farm is a must. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a coffee connoisseur, or simply someone who appreciates fresh, organic produce, this tour offers something special.

Book your experience with Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours today and discover the magic that happens when nature, culture, and sustainability come together in perfect harmony.

Visit Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours for more information and to plan your journey.